Whether you’re right on the cusp of retiring, downsizing from a double‑storey, or simply thinking ahead, these ten design ideas will set you up for a safer and more enjoyable life at home.
1. Single-storey living
Nothing beats single-storey living when it comes to ease, accessibility and independence. Without stairs to tackle, you’re free to move around confidently. Whether you’re carrying groceries today or using a walking frame in the future, your home moves with you through every stage of life.
At D.A. Burke, we’ve had the pleasure of crafting hundreds of beautiful single-storey homes designed just for you. Our focus is on creating spaces that feel warm and welcoming. We design homes where natural light flows beautifully, open-plan living makes daily life easier, and thoughtful layouts keep everything within easy reach.
Even if you love the look of a split‑level or raised entry, our design team can create gentle ramps and flush thresholds so every space stays accessible.
2. Downstairs bedrooms and bathrooms
If your home does have multiple levels, having a bedroom and bathroom on the ground floor can be a real difference-maker. It means you don’t have to worry about stairs when you’re tired, unwell, or just carrying the groceries in.
Everything you need is right there. Easy to get to, and ready when you are. And even if you’re still heading upstairs most days, having that ground-floor option gives you flexibility for the future.
3. Wide doorways and hallways
When it comes to home design for seniors, small details matter. Wider doorways and hallways, for example, make it easier to get around with a walker or wheelchair, or just to steer clear of bumping into furniture.
It’s one of those thoughtful touches that doesn’t seem like a big deal at first, but makes everyday life feel a whole lot more comfortable. And down the track, it means your home’s already set up to support you, whatever your needs might be.
4. Step-free entrances and flooring
Steps can be tricky at the best of times. And when it’s wet or the ground’s uneven, they can quickly become serious safety hazards. That’s why step-free entrances are a very smart move. They make coming and going so much easier, especially if you’re using a walker or carrying a heavy bag of groceries.
Inside, step-free entrances and smooth, non-slip flooring make it easy to move from room to room. At D.A. Burke, we carefully plan every detail, from wider doorways to flush thresholds, so there are no unexpected steps or tripping hazards.
We also choose stylish, hard-wearing materials that are safe underfoot and simple to maintain, giving you a home that’s both beautiful and practical for everyday living.
5. Bathroom safety and accessibility
The bathroom is one of those places where smart home design for seniors really matters. Slippery surfaces, awkward steps or low fixtures can make daily tasks harder than they need to be, especially as we get older.
That’s why features like grab bars, walk-in showers with no lip to step over, and raised toilets can make such a huge difference. But adding these safety features doesn’t mean your bathroom has to look like a hospital room.
We focus on stylish, well-thought-out solutions that blend in beautifully, so the space still feels calm, comfortable and all yours!
6. Open floor plans
There’s something about open living spaces that makes your home feel easy and comfortable to live in. With fewer walls in the way, moving from the kitchen to the dining room or lounge feels natural and hassle-free.
It’s a layout that helps you stay connected as well. For instance, you can chat with family while cooking, keep an eye on the grandkids as they play, or just enjoy a sense of space that makes your home feel bright and welcoming.
In short, don’t think of open-planning as just a design choice. Think of it as making your daily routine smoother and more enjoyable.
7. Natural light and ventilation
Good lighting is essential. Not just for comfort, but for safety too. As we age, for example, our eyes need a little more help, and that’s where task lighting comes in. Focused lights over your kitchen bench, reading chair, or craft area make it easier to see what you’re doing without straining your eyes.
But it’s not just the lighting that makes a space feel good. Natural airflow is just as important. Good ventilation keeps your home feeling fresh, helps prevent moisture building up, and supports overall well-being.
And when it comes to convenience, well-placed light switches make all the difference. Being able to flick a switch without stretching or fumbling makes day-to-day life that much easier, particularly at night or first thing in the morning.
8. Smart home features for peace of mind
Technology isn’t just for millennials or the tech-savvy. It’s for anyone who wants to make their home safer, more comfortable, and easier to live in. In fact, more and more homeowners planning for retirement are embracing smart solutions to ensure they can enjoy their homes well into the future.
Simple additions like sensor lights that turn on automatically at night, or smart doorbells that show you who’s at the door, take the little stresses out of your day. And with voice-controlled features, you can turn off the lights, adjust the temperature or set a reminder.
But smart home thinking extends beyond gadgets. For those building or renovating double-storey homes with an eye on the future, incorporating a residential lift is becoming an increasingly popular choice. These lifts provide a practical solution for when stairs may no longer be suitable, ensuring homeowners can comfortably stay in the home they love without compromise. Whether it’s moving between floors with ease or preparing for a time when mobility might become a consideration, a lift offers both convenience and peace of mind.
All these thoughtful features, from the smallest light sensor to a home lift, are designed to make everyday life simpler, safer, and more enjoyable. They’re there when you need them, helping you maintain independence, reduce physical strain, and remove the hassle from daily routines.
9. Plenty of storage at reachable heights
Nobody wants to be constantly bending down or stretching up just to grab something. It can get uncomfortable fast. And sometimes even a bit risky. That’s why having cupboards, shelves and drawers set at easy-to-reach heights feels so much better.
When your everyday things are right where you expect them, life just flows more comfortably. It helps you stay organised and means you’re not wasting time or energy on awkward movements. These small adjustments add up and make your home feel much easier to live in.
10. Outdoor spaces designed for relaxation and connection
Your outdoor area should be a place you look forward to spending time in. It should be a spot that’s easy to enjoy without adding extra work.
For instance, low maintenance gardens that don’t need constant care, or sheltered patios that protect you from sun and rain. And let’s not forget smooth paths that make getting around simple and safe.
These spaces are all about helping you relax and soak up the beautiful Mandurah surroundings. It’s perfect for enjoying your morning coffee in peace or catching up with family.
Design a home that grows with you, with D.A. Burke
Your home should be a place of comfort, safety, and joy at every stage of life. Planning ahead or making a fresh start, D.A. Burke specialises in creating homes designed with seniors in mind, blending thoughtful features, timeless style and practical ease.
Step-free entrances, intuitive smart technology and bright, airy rooms work in harmony to craft a home that’s not just safe, but genuinely inviting and full of life.
So if you’re ready to discover how a custom home can support your lifestyle today and tomorrow, contact D.A. Burke, luxury home builder and let’s build a home that feels just right for you.
